New Philadelphia, OH (April 28, 2026) – Buckeye Career Center has retained its Purple Star School status through 2029. The designation is awarded by the Ohio Department of Education & Workforce. The school first received the honor in 2023.
According to the Ohio Department of Education & Workforce, Purple Star schools are committed to serving students and families connected to the nation’s armed forces. BCC is one of 151 renewed awardees, with 153 other schools receiving first-time Purple Star status.
Buckeye Career Center Superintendent Bob Alsept takes pride in the district's achievement. “The greatest support we can give is to the brave men and women protecting our freedoms. If we can give them comfort by making sure their families are taken care of, then that is a small task that we are proud to complete,” he said.
BCC initially applied for the honor in the fall of 2022 by submitting paperwork, creating a military support page on the district’s website, and choosing a staff member to serve as the liaison between military families and the school. Those efforts continue in 2026. BCC’s liaison, Project Lead the Way/Engineering instructor, Mr. Tim Vandeborne, must complete professional development, identify military-connected students, and facilitate support for identified students and families. BCC must also participate in at least one activity to support the military community annually. Vandeborne, a U.S. Army veteran, is extremely proud of the designation. “Earning the Purple Star designation is important because it ensures that students from military families receive the understanding, stability, and support they need to succeed despite the challenges of frequent moves, deployments, and transitions,” commented Vandeborne. “It reflects Buckeye Career Center’s commitment to recognizing their sacrifices and creating a school culture where these students feel connected, supported, and set up for success, both in the classroom and beyond.”
More information regarding BCC’s support for military families can be found at https://www.buckeyecareercenter.org/page/military-support-page.
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